National Kids and Pets Day is April 26th, 2010 – celebrate with your family by recognizing our wonderful children and pets or honor this day by adding a new furry friend to the family! On our calendar, everyday is Pets Day, but take this special holiday to celebrate our favorite four-legged friends (and two-legged kids!) If you are looking to add a pet to your family take this time to learn about selecting the right pet and breed for you, and if you already have pets, learn how to teach your children pet responsibility.

Looking for a family friendly puppy? These are our picks:

•    Cocker Spaniel – These lap dogs are sensitive and sweet and enjoy the attention of children. Cocker Spaniels are obedient with training and friendly around people.
•    Pug – This affectionate breed loves being part of a family. Outgoing and mischievous, they make playful companions for children.
•    Golden Retriever – Similar to Labs in personality, Goldens are mild mannered and enjoy being around families and other people. These dogs are easy to train and are gentle with children.
•    Basset Hound – This breed is good with children of all ages. They are known for their docile nature and gentleness. Their long backs need to be supported when they are picked up, and an eager child can accidentally injure them.

Tips parents can teach their children regarding safe pet play:

•    Teach your children to pet softy, stay away from pet-food dishes, toys and bones, and not to startle your dog or cat when it is sleeping.
•    Keep babies and toddlers at a level higher than your dog. Dogs perceive height as representative of their hierarchy. Keep your children off the floor when the dog is in the room.
•    Don’t give your dog toys that resemble your children’s toys or clothing. Stay away from fabric stuffed dog toys that resemble your child’s stuffed animals.
•    Involve your child in your dog’s care. Even just the presence of your child in the same room while your dog is receiving his favorite things or activities can help build a positive association to children.

Whether your idea of celebrating National Kids and Pets Day means buying special treats for your pup, taking the kids and pets to the park or adopting a new friend, we think you should do all you can to show how much you love your furry friends on this day.

And what better way to show your pets how much you care than to keep them safe, healthy and protected at all times? With pet insurance available at Kroger and offered through PetFirst, you can keep your pet healthy while also keeping piece of mind. Policies cover routine care and medical procedures for dogs and cats, and works at any veterinarian nationwide. Policies start as low as $9.95 per month and right now, if you purchase online you can save $10! There is no better time than National Kids and Pets Day to start protecting your pet to ensure a long, healthy life to enjoy with your family.